New Volkswagen Golf GTI revealed
The new Volkswagen Golf GTI, the eighth generation, has been announced. With the engineering head of the group claiming to be more of a “true GTI” than its highly regarded predecessor.
The hot hatchback’s newest version is based on the Mk8 Golf which was introduced last year. It largely adheres to the proven model template, maintaining the famous’ EA888 ‘ 2.0-liter. With a four-cylinder turbocharged engine from the Volkswagen Group, and directing power exclusively to its front wheels.
Nevertheless, the latest GTI’s standard version includes all the changes to the Mk7 Golf’s GTI Performance version including power boosts up to 245hp (from 231hp) and torque up to 400Nm (from 350Nm). And a limited-slip differential and upgraded brakes.
To further please enthusiasts. The GTI remains a standard 6-speed manual gearbox. Although a dual-clutch 7-speed automatic is optional again.
The GTI uses the same upgraded version of the MQB architecture for the Volkswagen Group as the regular Golf Mk8. With MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the back.
It also has a new Vehicle Dynamics Director that controls the electrical differential lock (XDS) and optional adaptive dampers (Dynamic Chassis Control). For improving the balance between maximum comfort and driving dynamics.
The steering also reworked by Volkswagen’s engineers. Who made it more precise in an attempt to enhance both reaction and feedback.
For the new GTD diesel and GTE petrol-electric plug-in hybrid. The GTI will form a GT trio. A tailor-made front bumper, a roof spoiler, and other flourishes have brought the designs of the three performance models into line. While the GTI keeps the familiar red styling elements and gets a new light bar across the front bumper, the GTD uses silver and the GTE blue.
The twin tailpipes and red brake callipers continued by GTI. Now featuring the latter also on the GTD and GTE. Each model standard mounted on 17-inch alloy wheels. As with regular Golf, three-door versions of the GTI, GTD, and GTE are no longer available.
The updated electronics and technologies introduced on the regular Golf system in all three GT models including a number of new driver assistance and safety features.